Mayor Bob Wasserman, one of the most active and strong connections to Fremont's institutional memory, died December 29, 2011 following a lengthy respiratory illness.

Mayor Wasserman served the people of Fremont since 1976 when appointed Chief of Police, serving in that capacity for 15 years. After retirement from a 40-year career in law enforcement including appointments in Southern California and a term as president of the California Peace Officers' Association, Bob was elected to the Fremont City Council in 1992 and has served as mayor since 2004. He had previously been commended for outstanding public service by a resolution of the California Senate and received the Law Enforcement Executive of the Year Award.

Wasserman's long service with the City was an asset when controversies arose; he was often able to assist City staff and other councilmembers by putting issues into an historical context. No stranger to personal and political challenges, Wasserman even faced a deadly threat in 1998 when his residence was the target of an abortive firebomb attempt. Through contentious debates that encompassed such disparate issues including a bid for an Oakland A's ballpark, BART extension, demise of NUMMI and subsequent Tesla factory placement, Auto Mall development, Warm Springs plans and historic district development, the mayor was able to maintain a steady sense of purpose and civic commitment.

Recently appointed as Vice Mayor, Councilmember Anu Natarajan will serve as Fremont's interim mayor until the unexpired term of mayor is filled. As a general law city, California Government Code controls the method and timing of replacing the mayor. According to a press release from city officials, "The City Council will consider filling the vacancy within 60 days from the commencement of the vacancy."

Mayor Wasserman is survived by his wife of 53 years, Linda, and their two children, Dan and Jill. He was 77 years-old.

Funeral services will be held 4 p.m. Friday, January 6, 2012 at the Harbor Lights Church, 4760 Thornton Avenue in Fremont. A reception will immediately follow.